Refund Timing

In general the IRS issues most refunds in less than 21 days after receiving your tax return, and you can track your refund status on the Where’s My Refund website. If you are eligible for a state tax return, check your state tax department’s website for information how to track that refund.

Some refunds will be delayed in 2017. Tax returns that include an Earned Income Tax Credit or Additional Child Tax Credit will have their refunds held until February 15 by law. The refunds will be released on February 15, but refunds may not be delivered until the week of February 27.

Please remember this law affects all tax returns with the Earned Income Tax Credit or Additional Child Tax Credit and there is no way to get these refunds faster – all tax preparers are subject to this law. No one can speed up your refund.

If you have concerns about refund timing, call your local 2-1-1 or talk to your local United Way. They may be able to connect you to a financial coach or other resources to help build a budget.

Also check out MySmartMoney, a free tool built by the United Way to help build financial security.